Tahquitz Creek Falls

On (yes!) Tahquitz Creek, just west of Palm Springs, California on the Agua Caliente reservation. The tribe has a well-maintained trail to the falls, charging $12.50 for a hiking permit. The area is popular enough that I couldn't get a photo without people! The inset shows a view up the canyon, with the falls being behind the first (illuminated) ridge on the right. "Tahquitz" is locally pronounced TAH-keets and was the name of a malevolent spirit in local Native American lore. The name Agua Caliente ("hot water" in Spanish) comes from some hot springs in the vicinity. The contrast of the creek along the cool canyon with the stark rocky slopes, and the surrounding low desert, is striking!